Leaders in International Development

Leaders in International Development (LiID) is VSO’s joint initiative with the National College for Leadership of Schools and Children's Services (National College), the National Association of Head Teachers (NAHT) and the Association of School and College Leaders (ASCL).

The programme enables 12 school leaders to spend three months sharing skills with senior education colleagues in Africa in January 2011. Every school receives £5,000 to help cover the costs incurred during the school leader’s absence.

School leaders provide strategic advice and leadership coaching in countries like Rwanda and Namibia, supporting African colleagues to improve the quality of education. On their return, they share their experiences to benefit their school and students at home.

Benefits

• School leaders develop their professional and personal leadership skills, tackling new challenges within a different education system and cultural context

• Future school leaders step up on their leader's absence, gaining on-the-job development and experience of a more senior role

• Colleagues, schools and children in poorer countries benefit from the skills of school leaders

• Students at home deepen their understanding of the wider world, as the returning school leader helps develop the global dimension in the curriculum.

The independent evaluation of the programme shows the benefits of taking part to school leaders, schools, and pupils both in England and in developing countries.

Recruitment for placements commencing in January 2011 has now closed. If you have any further questions please feel free to contact our volunteering advice line on 0208 780 7500.

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